The domestic markets opened flat but saw selling pressure and losses, especially in mid-cap stocks due to margin funding issues. The markets recovered slightly in the afternoon on short-covering and selective buying but failed to sustain higher levels. Technically, market breadth was weak with higher volumes signaling more downside risk. Most technical indicators were below their averages, signaling impending selling pressure. However, some indicators were in oversold territory, which could lead to short-term bouts of buying at lower levels. The markets will take cues from the upcoming union budget, global markets, the rupee and crude oil prices.